The Girl Who Heard Colors
Written by Marie Harris and illustrated by Vanessa Brantley Newton. Nancy Paulsen Books,
2013.
Publisher’s summary: This eye-opening picture book introduces readers to their five senses and
to synesthesia—a condition in which one sense triggers another. For some people, sounds or
tastes have colors. And for others, numbers and letters do. Many famous artists have been
synesthetes, including Tori Amos, Duke Ellington, Jimi Hendrix, Lady Gaga, Stevie Wonder,
Billy Joel, John Mayer, Mozart, and Degas.
Imagine that when you hear a bell you see silver or when a dog barks you see red. That’s what
it’s like for Jillian—when she hears sounds she sees colors. At first the kids at school make fun
of Jillian. Jillian worries about being different until her music teacher shows her that having
synesthesia is an amazing thing. This lively, informative picture book makes synesthesia easy to
understand and celebrates each person’s unique way of experiencing the world.
Awards
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Book Review
“A little girl with synesthesia engages the world with all five senses, plus. . . . The exploration of
her unusual perception charms. . . . A brief author’s note gives a little bit more information about
synesthesia, grounding it in the experiences of children Harris has encountered on school visits.
An engaging look at a fascinating difference in perception, for younger readers.” — Kirkus
Reviews
Interview with the author: http://susannahill.blogspot.com/2014/02/meet-marie-harris-author-ofgirl-who.html
Illustrator’s website: http://painted-words.com/portfolio/vanessa-brantley-newton/
Discussion Questions
• Before reading:
o What is something that makes you unique?
o What is something you have had to work hard for?
o What is something you learned about yourself that surprised you?
• During reading:
o What would you do if you were her?
o If you were in her class, what would you say to her?
o What is one way you can encourage another student?
• After reading:
o How would you feel if someone made fun of you for being different?
o What is a special ability you have?
o Why is it important to learn about people’s differences?
Activities
Writing
Write about what it means to be unique.
Science
Study the senses of taste, touch, smell, hearing and seeing.
Art
Draw abstract art while listening to instrumental music.
Drama
Readers Theater of the story.
Technology Look at website listed below for an idea of how someone with synesthesia sees
words and colors.
Related Books
The Noisy Paint Box by Barb Rosenstock
Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes
Other books written by Marie Harris:
G Is for Granite: A New Hampshire Alphabet
Primary Numbers: A New Hampshire Number Book
Other books illustrated by Vanessa Brantley Newton:
One Love by Bob Marley
Let Freedom Sing (also wrote)
Additional Websites/Apps
Neuroscience for Kids: Synesthesia https://faculty.washington.edu/chudler/syne.html
BUG is an app that allows kids to create music based on colors. Article here:
http://www.fastcodesign.com/3044718/this-app-makes-every-kid-a-synesthete
A fascinating attempt by a synesthete to illustrate what he sees: http://otherthings.com/uw/syn/